Project Ability’s ‘On the Road’ project recently travelled to the Northeast of Scotland to deliver workshops in Forres and Elgin.

Groups created textile bags using collaged fabric that was applied using heat bond paper and an iron. The themes of birds, flowers and boats were the inspiration for the designs.

The workshops were carried out over two days, the first of which took place in a day centre in Forres with two small groups of participants and staff. The groups engaged extremely well with the project, responding well to ideas and technical help. The end results were a fabulous collection of designs that explored colour and shape.

The bag making sessions in Elgin took place in a purpose built day centre, again with two groups of around six participants as well as a staff member to help out. The group worked extremely well with support and there was a strong social element within the groups.

The end results were again simple, bold fabric cut outs that explored the different themes with an individual approach. Staff members in Elgin also expressed an interest continuing to create bags with the participants in the future to raise money for projects at the centre.

The workshops in both venues were a positive and welcoming experience. The participants along with all the staff that we met were extremely enthusiastic and eager to be involved. The creative and social aspects of the workshops contributed to the overall enjoyment of the sessions.